However according to French publication L’Equipe, Chelsea and Liverpool have now entered the race to sign the French international.

Jurgen Klopp and Antonio Conte are both said to be keeping an eye on the 26-year-old’s situation at Newcastle especially after the player confirmed his desire to play “for the greatest European clubs”.

The reports also claim that the trio of Premier League clubs may face stiff competition from Germany for the player’s signature as Hamburg have made approach for Sissoko after making a bid of £9.5 million.

Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez will certainly want to keep one of his key players but knows he will find it difficult to keep hold of the attacking midfielder after making intentions clear he would like to play for one of Europe’s bigger clubs.